Shedeur Sanders wrapped up his rookie 2025 season with the Cleveland Browns by starting the final seven games, posting a 3-4 record in those contests. The fifth-round pick (No. 144 overall) completed 56.6% of his passes for 1,400 yards, 7 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, while adding 169 rushing yards and 1 rushing touchdown.
Despite the modest numbers and a rocky transition to the NFL, Sanders will have every opportunity to earn the starting job in 2026. The Browns finished the year missing the playoffs, but Sanders’ late-season opportunity gave the 24-year-old quarterback some real NFL experience. Now, he could be making a big change to his jersey in 2026.
Dec 21, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) is introduced prior to a game against the Buffalo Bills at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Dec 21, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) is introduced prior to a game against the Buffalo Bills at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Shedeur Sanders To Make Jersey Change In 2026?
Now entering Year 2, Sanders is reportedly considering a significant change: switching from No. 12 to No. 2 — the number he made iconic during his college career at Jackson State and Colorado. His father, Deion Sanders, revealed the plan on his show “We Got Time Today,” saying:
“He’s switching up his numbers. He’s thinking about going to No. 2 instead of No. 12.”
No. 2 holds deep personal meaning for Shedeur. He wore it throughout high school, at Jackson State, and at Colorado, where the Buffaloes retired the number in his honor. It’s also central to his personal brand — his apparel line is called 2Legendary. The number has become synonymous with his identity as a player and a cultural figure.
Why Shedeur Sanders Wants No. 2 Back
When the Browns released rookie jersey numbers in 2025, Shedeur missed out on No. 2 because veteran wide receiver DeAndre Carter — a seven-year pro who signed as a free agent — claimed it first. Seniority rules likely played a role, as Carter had never worn No. 2 in his NFL career. A member of Sanders’ media team, Boogie Knight, posted (and later deleted) a frustrated message saying there was “no way” the number should have gone to anyone else and that the camp “knew it was coming.”
At rookie minicamp, Sanders addressed the situation with his trademark humor when asked if he’d consider buying No. 2 from Carter:
“Nah, I’m not trying to buy anything. My signing bonus ain’t that high right now.”
As the 144th overall pick, Sanders signed a four-year rookie contract worth approximately $4.6 million, including a $446,553 signing bonus — far too modest to negotiate a number swap with a veteran.
He also hinted that No. 12 was a subtle nod to his father (Deion wore No. 21 for his first 12 NFL seasons) and Tom Brady, who mentored him and wore No. 12 throughout his legendary career. Sanders said at minicamp:
“My story is gonna be similar. I was a late-round draft pick, but we’re here now.”
Shedeur Sanders Jersey Sales Remain Elite
Regardless of the number, Shedeur Sanders moves merchandise at an elite level. Despite being a fifth-round pick, he led all NFL rookies in jersey sales for the entire month following the 2025 draft (per Fanatics). By the start of the regular season, he ranked fifth in overall NFL jersey sales (per NFLPA data).
If the Browns facilitate the switch to No. 2, jersey sales would likely explode even further. Fans have clamored for Sanders to reclaim the number that defined his college stardom.
What This Means for Shedeur Sanders and the Browns in 2026
The potential number change comes as Sanders prepares for a critical second season. With a full offseason to refine his mechanics, build chemistry with the receiving corps, and learn under new coaching staff, 2026 could be a breakout year. The Browns’ willingness to make the switch would send a strong message of support and investment in their young quarterback.
For now, the decision remains under consideration, but the buzz is undeniable. No. 2 Sanders in Cleveland would be a cultural moment for both the franchise and the city.
For more Shedeur Sanders news, Cleveland Browns updates, NFL quarterback developments, and jersey number changes, stay tuned.
Do you think the Browns should let Shedeur Sanders switch to No. 2? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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